A sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) advocate has lamented delays in implementation of post-abortion care guidelines which a landmark October 28 2025 High Court of Malawi ruling directed.
In an interview with The Nation, Kenneth Mtago said the ruling, which directed that the review and subsequent implementation be done within 180 days from the date of the ruling, provided legal clarity that has been lacking.
The ruling followed a court case that a 16-year-old pursued, challenging the decision of a clinician at Chileka Health Centre in Blantyre, who declined to help in terminating her pregnancy. The pregnancy was a result of rape by her 60-year-old neighbour when she was 13 years old.
“The judgement also emphasised that health facilities have a duty to provide accurate information and lawful productive health services,” he said.
Mtago said over and above these legal protections, there remains a need for greater public awareness, health worker training and the revision of clinical guidelines to ensure that girls can access services without unnecessary barriers.
Attorney General (AG) Frank Farouk Mbeta earlier said consultation processes have been completed and that draft guidelines are awaiting vetting and other formalities.
The Blantyre-based minor sued Blantyre City Council, Malawi Human Rights Commission and the AG.
